2 May, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
From River Island to Selfridges, & Other Stories and more – here’s our picks of the week
Metro journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission – learn more
Well would you look at that, the first of two bank holidays is here – and with the sun still shining, we’re doing everything we can to make the most of it over the long weekend.
Just like every week, our shopping expert has searched high and low for the hottest products, exciting news – fresh from the high street – and all the bargains and sales you need to know about.
Now we bet you’re wondering ‘how could she possibly top the bumper editions she’s carefully handpicked and put together before?’ – we she has, and you won’t want to miss a second of it. Our suggestion, pop the kettle on, take five, and get your debit card ready for some mild spending that’s about to happen…
Of course we must start with the hottest news: after what feels like a lifetime, IKEA has opened its doors in the iconic TOPSHOP space at Oxford Circus – marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony with CEO Peter Jelkeby, Mayor Sadiq Khan, and the Swedish Ambassador. The event drew large crowds and even featured street performers on May 1. IKEA superfan Vicky Dawson, who has visited all UK stores, was among the first to enter – what a legend!
For the matcha and tattoo obsessed, Blank Street is launching a pop-up experience this Spring, combining a Matcha Bar with a drop-in-only Tattoo Studio in collaboration with renowned artists from The London Social and The Manchester Social. Visitors can receive a fine line tattoo and enjoy a refreshing iced drink. The pop-up will be open in London at Battle Bridge Place in Kings Cross from Friday May 9 (11am-7pm) to Saturday May 10 (11am-7pm), and at Aviva Studios in Manchester from Friday May 16 (11am-7pm) to Saturday May 17 (11am-7pm).
Sticking with the beverage theme, new research shows that Gen Z prefers personalised nicknames over outdated pet names. To celebrate this trend, Coca-Cola’s ‘Share a Coke’ campaign now includes customisable cans with modern nicknames, available from May 15. The campaign highlights the importance of nicknames in Gen Z friendships and offers a fun way to express these connections.
These are just a few things our expert thinks you need to know about, with plenty more… So get that card ready, as we predict some spending in your future.
Teremana Blanco Tequila
Teremana Blanco Tequila, founded by Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson, is a premium, small-batch tequila made from 100% blue weber agave in Jalisco, Mexico. It features bright citrus notes and a fresh, clean finish, achieved through traditional brick oven roasting and copper pot distillation. The tequila is celebrated for its quality and sustainability, having won several awards. It is versatile for sipping or mixing in cocktails and is gluten-free with no carbs or sugar.
Classic Hair Claw-Clip
The Classic Hair Claw-Clip from & Other Stories is a medium-sized accessory featuring a playful pattern. Made from 70% recycled polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and 30% methyl acrylate-butadiene-styrene, it measures 8 cm by 4 cm and is designed to securely hold hair while adding a stylish touch.
CortiSoul
This advanced blend of adaptogens, amino acids, vitamins, and functional mushrooms is crafted to support energy metabolism, psychological function, and overall balance through nutrient replenishment. With no caffeine, no added sugar, and a refreshingly tropical taste, it’s not a quick-fix but a foundation for your daily calm and composure.
UV Defence SPF 50+
Skinstitut's UV Defence SPF 50+ is an oil-free, high-protection sunscreen suitable for daily use. It offers broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays, preventing premature ageing and sunspots. The formula is non-comedogenic, making it ideal for oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin types. Apply generously 20 minutes before sun exposure and reapply regularly, especially after swimming or sweating.
Essence Gold 23 Watch
The Essence Gold 23 Watch by Abbott Lyon is a luxurious timepiece featuring a gold 5-link chain strap and a pearlescent square dial. It is equipped with a Quartz Seiko Movement and is water-resistant up to 3 ATM1. Designed for everyday wear, it combines elegance and versatility. The watch comes with a two-year warranty and is packaged in luxury recyclable materials.
Matcha Lip Scrub
Experience exceptional lip care with this exfoliating lip scrub, designed to rejuvenate and refresh your lips. Infused with nourishing ingredients and the invigorating flavour of matcha, this scrub gently removes dry skin, leaving your lips incredibly smooth.
ZERO Sunglasses in Green Tortoiseshell
The ZERO Sunglasses by Taylor Morris, inspired by the iconic frames worn by John Lennon, feature completely flat, base zero lenses for a distinctive look. Crafted from handmade green tortoiseshell cellulose acetate, these sunglasses include hunter green CR39 lenses with CAT3 UV protection. The design is complemented by stainless steel with gold metal detailing and bespoke temples. The ZERO has become a brand favourite and is instantly recognisable.
Pink Printed Shirt Pyjama Set
The Pink Printed Shirt Pyjama Set from River Island is a stylish and comfortable two-piece ensemble. It includes a collared shirt and matching shorts, both featuring a graphic print. The shirt has short sleeves and button fastening, while the shorts come with an elasticated drawstring waistband and pockets. This set is perfect for a chic and relaxed night in.
Matcha Latte Lovers Tasting Pack
The Bird & Blend Matcha Latte Magic Whisk bundle includes the innovative Matcha Latte Magic Whisk, designed to create perfect hot or iced matcha lattes at home with ease. It comes with the Magical Matcha Selection Box, featuring 12 diverse 5g matcha tins, including popular flavours like Ice Cream and Salted Caramel. This bundle is ideal for both beginners and matcha enthusiasts.
Halo Essential Scoop Tank
The Halo Essential Scoop Tank has been redesigned with a new scoop neck and a fitted silhouette. Made from Vuori's ultra-soft brushed DreamKnit™ fabric, which consists of 89% recycled materials, this tank offers exceptional comfort. It features wide straps and a high back, making it perfect for both lounging and active wear.
Almora Serum For Fine Lines
Experience the ultimate skin rejuvenation with our Fine Lines Serum. This high-performance serum features a patented oil-in-water emulsion containing micro-active droplets from seven natural oils in the SAPTA COMPLEX ©. Enriched with antioxidant Forsythosides B, mango extract, and adaptogenic plants, it boosts cellular oxygenation, restores elasticity and firmness, and diminishes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Dorina Curves Navy Floral Ink Print Swimsuit
The Dorina Curves Navy Floral Ink Print Swimsuit is a stylish and flattering swimwear option designed for comfort and elegance. This swimsuit features a deep V-neck with a twisted front, wide adjustable straps, and a pull-on stretchy design. The navy floral ink print adds a touch of sophistication, making it perfect for a chic beach or poolside look. Additionally, it includes pockets for added convenience.
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2 May, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
This is how long you should be able to hold a plank for, according to your age
No matter how long you hold a plank for, it feels like an eternity.
You’re sure hours have gone by, and yet you look at the timer, and you’ve been struggling for all of five seconds.
The annoying thing, is that the plank really is good for you. Loved by yoga mums, army cadets and everyone in between, the core strengthening exercise is simple yet effective. But just how long are you meant to be able to hold it?
The record for the longest plank was set by Josef Salek from the Czech Republic in May 2023 – an unbelievable 9 hours and 38 minutes, around an hour longer than a flight from London to New York.
Arms shaking just thinking about it? Well, thankfully, the average person doesn’t need to spend a full day in agony.
Rowan Clift, training and nutrition specialist at Freeletics, tells Metro that the exercise is about ‘quality, not quantity’. However, there are some parameters, depending on your age, which can be a useful guideline for your next workout.
Aged 20-39: 45-60 seconds
‘In your 20s and 30s, being able to plank for 45-60 seconds is a solid marker of good core endurance,’ says PT Joseph Webb, who has been in the fitness industry for 17 years.
But, Joseph adds: ‘The purpose of a plank isn’t to chase an arbitrary number. It’s to build usable core stability that supports what you want to do outside of the gym.’
It might take some trial and error achieving a plank. As a starting point, put yourself in the position of, well, a plank. Use your forearms and toes to hold yourself parallel to the ground, with your back and legs straight (not arched).
Joseph adds it’s important to ‘keep hips level with shoulders, squeeze glutes and engage thighs, and maintain a natural neck position.’
He says: ‘Brace your abdominals as if preparing for a punch, but keep your breathing fluid, as if you’re sitting on the couch.
‘Sagging hips, flared ribs or strained shoulders mean you’re no longer training the muscles you think you are.’
Ages 40-59: 30-45 seconds
Joseph says: ‘From my experience working with hundreds of clients in this age range, I’ve found that maintaining a 30-45 second plank with excellent form demonstrates very respectable endurance and trunk stability.’
That doesn’t mean you can’t push yourself though. ‘If you’re able to confidently reach 60 seconds, that’s generally a sign of excellent core control for this age group.’
Adjusting to the technique can be more difficult as you age, however. This can be due to various reasons, including loss of muscle mass and strength.
‘As muscles around the hips, pelvis and spine weaken, or become less coordinated, it takes more effort to stabilise the plank position,’ says Joseph.
‘Those in this age category may also find planking difficult due to joint stiffness or previous injuries, which can make it harder to hold a rigid position.’
Age 60+: 15 to 30 seconds
Joseph advises his clients aged 60 and over to aim for 15 to 30 seconds of a full plank with good form.
‘If you can build up to 30 seconds, that’s an excellent marker of strong functional core endurance at this stage of life.’
Rowan adds that if you’re 60+ and finding the plank difficult, you can modify the exercise to make it a little easier.
He explains: ‘Plank on the knees or with hands elevated on a bench to build strength while reducing pressure on the wrists, shoulders and lower back.’
Find the plank too challenging? Here are some alternative exercises
There are plenty of other core exercises Joseph recommends to people who find planks too challenging, especially for those aged 60 and over.
These include
- Incline plank: Hands on a bench or countertop reduces the load but still engages the core well.
- Kneeling plank: Drop to the knees to reduce the leverage demands while keeping the core braced.
- Bird-dog exercise: On all fours, extend opposite arm and leg while maintaining a stable trunk. Great for core, hips, and back.
Remember: quantity over quality
The most important question to ask yourself is: What’s the goal?
Joseph explains: ‘The purpose of a plank is to to build core stability that supports what you want to do outside of the gym.
‘Whether that’s running, lifting or simply moving well in daily life, the question is: “Is my core doing its job when I need it?”.’
How often should you plank?
Rowan advises incorporating planks into your workout regime three to five times a week. He says: ‘Your core benefits from regular activation, but you do also need to allow time for rest and recovery.
‘Performing planks daily can be fine, especially if you are varying the intensity and duration, but if you’re experiencing fatigue or tightness, have at least one day’s rest.’
You should be careful of pushing yourself too much, Rowan adds. ‘If you experience shaking, holding your breath, pain in your lower back or shoulders, or your hips begin to sag, it’s time to stop. These are signs that muscles have fatigued and your form is breaking down.’
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2 May, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
Asda customers can walk away with up to £6,000 by spending just £5 in store
Asda customers are in for a treat this month, with the supermarket launching a major giveaway that could see you walking away with £6,000.
To celebrate its 60th Birthday, the supermarket has launched a new ‘Scan to Win’ prize draw, with instant giveaways ranging from 60p to thousands of pounds to spend on food, clothing and more in store.
To be in with a chance of winning, all you have to do is spend £5 or more and download the Asda Rewards app. Simply scan your rewards app at the checkout to reveal a guaranteed prize.
How to claim your Asda’s ‘Scan to Win’ giveaway
From Thursday 1st May until Monday 30th June, customers who spend £5 or more in-store or online and scan their Asda Rewards app can earn one entry per day to reveal a guaranteed prize.
The top prize available to win is £6,000, but we’re afraid to say you won’t be leaving the car park with a wad of cash.
Instead, the prize money will be added to your Asda Rewards Cashpot in the app, where it can be converted to vouchers to spend in store or online.
Still, with the average family now spending £5,000 on food each year, the top prize will have your groceries covered and leave a decent chunk to splurge on clothing and homeware.
Other Cashpot prizes available are worth £600, £60, £6 and 60p, as well as £60, £6 and 60p off coupons.
Terms and conditions for ‘Scan to Win’ and a full list of products excluded from Asda Rewards can be found on Asda.com.
Other supermarket news to add to your reading trolly
M&S shoppers are going wild over the return of a retro cake that disappeared in the 80s. Can you guess which? (Spoiler: it’s one for the chocolate lovers).
Those with a sweet tooth will also want to head to Lidl, where a new summer ice-cream range starts at just 15p. The white chocolate and pink lemonade is our pick.
In less exciting news, Tesco has hiked the price of its meal deals. Meanwhile, we speak to the ‘casual kleptos’ who can afford food, but choose to steal from supermarkets in a rebellion against rising costs.
Kids eat for 60p
As part of its birthday celebrations, Asda is also dropping the price of its ‘Kids Eat for £1’ meal deal in its cafes to just 60p.
The deal is available in all 205 cafes for the entire month of May, including the May half term holiday.
2 May, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
'I've just had a milestone birthday and I'm fed up I haven't met the one'
Resident agony aunt Coleen Nolan has advice for a reader wondering whether she needs to accept she might not meet a life partner so she can feel happier at 50
2 May, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
'Husband has walked out on me again but he's blaming childhood trauma'
Coleen Nolan advises a reader in her 40s who does not know where to turn after her husband asked for a divorce, saying he hated feeling restricted by marriage
2 May, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
Le Creuset iconic rainbow mugs below £8 in deal cheaper than Amazon Prime Day
Shoppers have spotted a way to save money on the iconic cookware brand beloved by shoppers and influencers alike
2 May, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
Getting married? Don’t forget to think about your wedding jewellery and our top picks from Lily & Roo
Metro journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission – learn more
You’ve got the final dress fitting booked, the shoes wrapped up safely in their box, and your hair and make-up looks sorted — but what are you doing about jewellery on your wedding day?
While it’s likely not the day you’ll want to whip out the colourful costume jewellery, a simple yet elegant pendant or a pretty pair of huggie hoops can truly help tie a whole bridal look together. After all, no outfit is truly complete without accessories.
Famous for their timeless and refined designs, Lily & Roo is most definitely the brand we’d turn to first for pared-back pieces that’ll impress any modern bride.
All handmade in London using freshwater pearls and recycled precious metals, every single design is exquisite — while also still being simple enough to regularly rewear long after your wedding day.
From dainty and delicate gold or silver plated necklaces, to classy hoops and huggies that come complete with statement detachable pearls, there are plenty of different options to explore.
Below, we’ve curated an edit of our all-time favourite pieces from the Lily & Roo wedding collection. Expect plenty of best-sellers, and also a fair few exciting new releases for SS25.
Gold Pearl Drop Huggies and Large Pearl Necklace Gift Set
Two of the brand’s bridal best-sellers, this set features the elegant Gold Large Single Pearl Necklace, and the Gold Huggie Pearl Drop Earrings — which are delicately decorated with dazzling cubic zirconias. Together, they make the perfect pair of accessories for a timeless bride — and they’re also available in silver plating if you’d prefer.
Silver Diamond Style Tennis Bracelet
As well as being long associated with love and commitment, tennis bracelets just look undeniably chic and glamorous. This one comes in solid sterling silver or 14ct gold plating, has a handy extendable chain to ensure a perfect fit, and is set with a swathe of sparkling pavé crystals.
Gold Large Pearl Lariat Necklace
Not only is this lariat necklace the perfect bridal accessory for a low or plunging neckline, it’s also guaranteed to elevate a more simple slip or A-line dress. It’s complete with a stunning freshwater pearl, and comes in two different chain lengths so you can be sure that it falls in the perfect place for you.
Gold Beaded Single Pearl Bracelet
A new release for this summer, this lovely bracelet comes in gold or silver plating, and would make a lovely accessory for any bride or bridesmaid. The beaded chain is ever so slightly chunkier than most other Lily & Roo bracelets — so it makes a little bit more of a statement, while still maintaining a delicate look and feel.
Silver Diamond Style Drop Satellite Stud Earrings
Timeless and elegant, pearls are often used in bridal jewellery — but these diamond-style earrings are a great alternative option if you’re keen to steer clear of gemstones. Easy and comfortable to wear, the studs feature a satellite chain with three crystal pavé drops that sparkle when they catch the light.
Silver Ten Pearl Choker and Five Pearl Bracelet Gift Set
In this gift set, you’ll get a stunning Silver Ten Pearl Choker, which feels like the perfect style and length for a strapless or off the shoulder wedding dress. It also comes with the matching Silver Five Pearl Bracelet — which boasts the same kind of pretty freshwater pearls, each individually chosen for their soft and natural lustre.
Silver Diamond Style Huggie Hoop Earrings
It’s your wedding day — which means you definitely deserve to swap out your standard silver huggies for a pair with a little more sparkle. Boasting a row of subtly shiny cubic zirconias, these ones are just right — and you’ll definitely find plenty of ways to wear them in the future.
Solid Gold Large Pearl Drop Hoop Earrings
A Lily & Roo classic, these best-selling hoops are one of our all-time favourites. Designed with both comfort and style in mind, the solid gold sleeper hoops are comfortable enough to wear 24/7 — while the large freshwater pearls make a real statement, but can also be removed whenever you like.
Gold Multi Pearl Bracelet
Another brand new design, this pretty piece boasts a stunning combination of freshwater pearls in different sizes, and layers beautifully with other bracelets. Available in sterling silver or 14ct gold filled — which isconsiderably thicker than gold plating — it would also make a thoughtful gift for someone extra special in your bridal party, like the Maid of Honour.
Silver Single Pearl Choker
If you’re after a shorter necklace to go with a dress with a square or strapless neckline, this dainty choker would be our first pick. Minimalist and classic, it features a single lustrous freshwater pearl, and also comes in gold, white gold, and rose gold finishes.
Gold Three Graduated Pearl Drop Earrings
Having your hair up on your big day? Elevate any chic yet understated bridal knot or bun with a delicate pair of drop earrings. These ones boast three freshwater pearls that elegantly ascend in size, and a secure stud and butterfly backing for comfort and easy wear.
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1 May, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
I visited the brand new Oxford Street IKEA before it opened — there’s just one problem
I’m giddy as I walk through the doors of IKEA’s brand new home: the grade II listed 214 Oxford Street store.
It looks vastly different from when it was ‘big Topshop’, the millennial dreamland that closed its doors in January 2021.
Just 10 months later, IKEA bought the site, and we’ve been waiting for its grand opening ever since.
Today is finally that day. Taking up just three of the building’s seven floors, this new store marks the start of IKEA’s journey to open smaller inner-city spaces – a move away from the gigantic warehouse-style shops you find in retail parks across the UK, and beyond.
I was one of the lucky few to get a peek inside the new IKEA before it opened – there’s Billy bookcases and meatballs (of course), and even some brand new merch.
The one problem though? You won’t find any staff at the tills, as yet another retailer opts for self-check out tech over good old fashioned human interaction.
Did it dampen my IKEA experience? Here’s everything you need to know about the brand new store.
First impressions
As you walk in at street level, you’re welcomed by a big ‘Hej!’ sign and IKEA’s ‘curated shops’, essentially four shopping edits chosen by London families, based on their real wants and needs – think collections for those WFH or living in a basement flat.
It’s a humble brag from the Swedish retailer to prove that they know exactly what we want here in the capital. Multiple times a year, new Londoners will be invited to curate their own product selection.
The collections feature knick-knacks including soft furnishings and glassware. It was cool, but nothing groundbreaking, and it didn’t feel like the IKEA I know and love.
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I was excited by the fabulous IKEA merch though. From bottles and T-shirts to hoodies, you can deck out your wardrobes (IKEA’s PAX, of course). I may have to go back for that fuchsia bucket hat…
The restaurant and deli
Take the escalator down to the 1st floor and you’re greeted by the all-important deli and restaurant, on a smaller scale than the IKEA restaurants shoppers will be used to, seating just 130 diners at a time.
The restaurant, while compact, is set up much like a McDonald’s. Order at the screens and collect it once your number pops up on the TV above the kitchen. You can get items to take away too.
Sadly there’s no new offerings on the menu, but of course you’re only really there for one thing anyway. The meatballs are on offer and are still as delicious as ever, all for just £4.95.
There’s even hot dogs from 85p, making for a pretty cheap meal out.
In the deli, I spied some Cheez doodles, which were invented in 1964 and are only available in Ocado in the UK (until now), as well as Gifflar cinnamon rolls and knock-off Jammy Dodgers.
With a full stomach, it was time to head around the showroom.
The history of 214 Oxford Street
The iconic grade II listed building is 113 years old, having been completed back in 1912.
It’s rich history includes being part of the Crystal Palace Bazaar and then becoming the Peter Robinson’s department store.
After than Topshop took the building over in 1992, until it was forced to close its doors in January 2021.
IKEA quickly acquired it for £378 million working for four years to turn it into the new store you’re seeing now.
The showroom
This is the IKEA you’ll recognise – but elevated.
You start your journey in the sofa section, followed by bedroom, office, kitchen, bathroom and kids. Did I find my dream kitchen there? Yes. Can I carry a whole showroom home? No.
Some hi-tech features include a touch screen to control the lighting in your showroom of choice, plus, as you move between sections, you pass under an archway where you’ll hear a voice telling you about that section’s designs.
Less hi-tech but just as exciting is the IKEA pick n mix in the kids’ section.
The store, while smaller, packs so much into just three floors, satisfying every need or want you may have, and you don’t miss the expansive size of the likes of its Wembley store.
Equally you don’t feel underwhelmed by the offerings like you might do in the compact Hammersmith store.
All in all there are 6,000 products on display, 3,500 of which are available to buy and take home on the day.
Obviously not all IKEA items can be popped in a bag and lugged home on the Victoria line – and the store won’t let you do that anyway.
You can’t actually pick up any large pieces of furniture that won’t fit in the iconic blue FRAKTA IKEA bags – but you can order it from the store to be delivered to your door.
The re-shop and re-use section
In a global first, the Oxford Street store has a ‘re-shop and re-use’ section, where you can browse second-hand and discontinued IKEA products.
We’re being spoiled with IKEA furniture that’s even cheaper – what’s not to love?
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The addition to the store is to promote a more sustainable lifestyle at home, and it was a stand out for me. I can’t wait to go back for some bargain hunting.
In another first, there will also be a ‘live studio’ which can host interactive experiences and exhibitions for events that are relevant to the local community.
My verdict and the one big drawback…
IKEA has long been more than simply a furniture and homeware store – it’s an experience.
It’s a day out where you can explore your tastes, satisfy your cravings for Swedish meatballs and indulge in a few new additions to your home.
It sucks you in with the allure of cheaper than cheaper flat packs and kitchen gadgets you didn’t know you need, making you wish you could renovate the cramped and overpriced flat you rent, in the hopes of one day making it onto the property ladder (I know that’s not just me).
But, as you prepare to pay for your brand new items, there are only self-check out tills – a bit of a flat ending to any shopper’s time in the Swedish haven.
They aren’t the smart self-checkout tills that scan your items for you either, think of it more like a standard Tesco experience.
Not to brag, but I’m a pro at self-service checkouts, so it doesn’t phase me too much, but it does feel a bit of a shame. Just this week, we’ve already seen robots being introduced at Morrisons, and customers were recently furious over the introduction of ‘dystopian’ self checkouts at Tesco.
Still, I fear I may become a regular visitor, forced to brave the central London crowds just so I can escape into the oasis that is IKEA Oxford Street.
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1 May, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
These are the stylish scalloped furniture and decor picks from Dunelm we’re loving this spring
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With Spring finally in full swing, now feels like the perfect time to bring a slightly more light and playful vibe into our homes.
Oozing charm, scalloped furniture and accessories feel like the perfect fix — and thankfully, the home and decor experts at Dunelm clearly seem to think so, too.
One of the brand’s best-selling collections, the Remi range is where you’ll find the most scallops. From beautifully crafted side tables and chests of drawers, to charming picture frames and wall lights, Remi items are characterised by their statement scalloped trims, soft hues, and overall playful feel.
And this Spring, the scallops have moved into the mainstream — with a recently released bold and bright bathroom furniture range already proving really popular, and boho scalloped accessories like mango wood picture frames and woven dog beds also making an appearance.
Ready to hop on the hype? Explore our top new scalloped homeware picks from Dunelm, below.
Scalloped Dunelm Picks:
Scallop Under Sink Unit
A recent release that’s already racking up positive reviews, this fabulous under-sink unit is perfect for sneaking some much-needed extra storage space into a small bathroom. A truly charming piece of furniture, we love its groove door front, sweet scalloped trim, and playful range of painted colour finishes.
Remi Rechargeable Table Lamp
Thanks to its cordless design, there are seemingly endless ways you can use this pretty and portable table lamp. It’ll look lovely displayed on a shelf — but would also make a fabulous table centrepiece for an al fresco dinner in the summertime.
Scalloped Ceramic Plant Pot
With its unique scalloped top, and glossy reactive glaze finish, this ceramic plant pot looks really expensive — but it’s actually a budget-friendly Special Buy. Available in three different natural finishes, it feels like the perfect pot for trailing plants.
Scallop Mirror Wall Cabinet
Keep essential toiletries like cleansers, serums, and spare tubs of toothpaste close by with this brilliant bathroom cabinet. Fix it on the wall, and pair it with the matching under-sink unit for a cute and cohesive scalloped look.
Remi Side Table
A truly versatile piece of furniture, this scalloped side table boasts solid wood legs for added stability, and an open shelf that’s great for storage. With its distinctive rounded edges, and scalloped apron, it would make a lovely addition to any lounge or bedroom.
Scalloped Rattan Hanging Basket
You can’t go wrong with a cute hanging basket — and this is truly one of the chicest options we’ve seen. For a stunning summer display, fill it with your choice of pink or white petunias — with daily watering and dead-heading, they’ll bloom right through until Autumn.
Hestia Set of 2 Scalloped Martini Glasses
A stunning addition to any bar cart or drinks cabinet, these martini glasses would also make a lovely housewarming or birthday gift. Pink and scalloped — what’s not to love?
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Feeling sluggish? You’re not alone.
The UK has been basking in high temperatures, with some parts of the country set to reach 29C.
But, as we all flock to beer gardens to enjoy the mini heatwave, our brains could be struggling to cope.
It all comes down to our own body temperature, and how hard the brain works to regulate it.
‘The temperature that the body needs to stay within is an unbelievably narrow window,’ consultant neurologist, Dr Steve Allder, tells Metro.
‘If your temperature rises from 37C to 41C there’s a very good chance that it would kill you. Similarly, if it dropped from 37C to 33C, you would really start to struggle.
‘The body really has to work hard to keep our temperature in a tight range, especially in hot weather, and that then takes energy away from the brain.’
A&E doctor, Dr Mark Cox tells Metro: ‘When you’re hot, your body is in a constant state of thermoregulation (keeping your temperature stable).
‘This burns energy and diverts blood flow toward the skin to release heat, which means less energy and oxygen get to your brain.’
So, now we know the science – what does that mean for how you feel?
‘You’ll notice it in things like memory lapses, poor concentration and slower decision-making,’ Dr Mark says.
And while we all might find ourselves getting a bit, well, aggy, in hot weather, Dr Mark says that’s to do with your brain too.
Hot weather and antidepressants
Dr Sameer Sanghvi, GP at Lloyds Pharmacy Online Doctor, warns that hot weather can be particularly dangerous for people taking antidepressants.
He explains: ‘Common antidepressants can all stop the temperature-regulating area of the brain from functioning as it should. Serotonin-noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors(SNRIS) and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIS) are some of the most commonly prescribed antidepressants.’
If you are prescribed these antidepressants, Dr Sanghvi warns not to suddenly stop taking them. ‘You should always consult your doctor before making changes to your mental health medication,’ he adds.
‘The best thing you can do is take precautions to stay cool: stick to the shade; drink plenty of fluids and avoid alcohol.’
‘Heat can amplify reactivity in the brain’s emotion centre, the amygdala, and reduce the calming influence of the parasympathetic nervous system,’ says Dr Mark, co-founder of Orli Health.
‘That makes people more prone to irritability, impulsiveness and even aggression.’
For those with existing neurological conditions, warm weather can cause these symptoms to worsen.
Dr Steve, who works at Re: Cognition, says that those with multiple sclerosis, for example, ‘will have far less resilience’ to cope with temperature changes.
He adds: ‘This is also true for something like migraines. People find that they get more migraines when it gets hot.’
Signs of heat exhaustion
If your body can’t cool itself down, you risk developing heat exhaustion, which could progress to heat stroke if left untreated, a life-threatening condition.
Dr Allder says that those doing prolonged exercise in the sun should be careful of developing heat stroke, especially if they’re not taking in enough fluids. He adds: ‘Make sure to stop if you feel lightheaded or woozy.’
To protect yourself from the temperature changes, Dr Allder advises avoiding the sun, hydrating and resting.
Most adults should aim to drink at least six to eight glasses a day (around 1.5-2 litres), but Dr Allder advises getting an extra 500ml to 1 litre per day.
According to the NHS, the signs of heat exhaustion include:
- Weakness
- Tiredness
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Feeling sick or being sick
- Excessive sweating and skin becoming pale and clammy, or getting a rash
- Cramps in the arms, legs and stomach
- Fast breathing or heartbeat
- A high temperature
- Being very thirsty
If someone is showing signs of heat exhaustion, they need to be cooled won and given fluids, the NHS website says.
Heat exhaustion does not usually need medical help if you can cool down within 30 minutes. However, if it turns into heatstroke, it needs to be treated as an emergency.
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